1938 Washington Quarter

About This Coin

The 1938 Washington Quarter is a United States quarter from the Washington Silver Quarters 1932-1964 series — an early issue, 6th of 32 years in the series. In 1938, coins were struck at the San Francisco and Philadelphia Mints with a combined mintage of 12.3 million. This represents the second-lowest annual mintage in the series, below the series median of 87.7 million. The obverse features George Washington facing left, based on a 1786 bust by Jean-Antoine Houdon and the reverse displays an eagle perched on a bundle of arrows with olive branches below. The 1938-S is a low-mintage semi-key issue. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 6.3 grams, 24.3 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Collectors have cataloged 12 known die varieties for this date across 2 categories, including doubled die obverse, doubled die reverse. Produced 6 years after the celebrated 1932 key date. Across its variants, estimated values range from $19 to $292 depending on mint mark, grade, and strike type. A notable auction result reached $14K in MS68 grade at Heritage Auctions. Designed by John Flanagan.